Brazil Kicks U.S. From Women's World Cup

Thursday

Sep 27, 2007 at 1:59 PMSep 27, 2007 at 1:59 PM

By STEPHEN WADEAP Sports Writer

HANGZHOU, China | The streak is over, and so is the United States' bid for a third Women's World Cup championship.

Brazil and its star player Marta put on a dazzling performance against the Americans and cruised to a 4-0 victory on Thursday, ending the U.S. winning streak at 51 games and sending the Brazilians into their first title match, against Germany on Sunday.

Brazil went ahead on an own-goal in the 20th minute, and Marta made it 2-0 soon after. Cristiane and Marta added goals in the second half as Marta became the tournament's leading scorer with seven goals.

The U.S. played the final 45 minutes with 10 players after midfielder Shannon Boxx was sent off in first-half injury time for a contentious second yellow card.